Broccoli And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy broccoli casserole topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The rich Velveeta cheese and tender broccoli combine with a buttery cracker crust for a comforting dish that appeals to all ages and complements many main courses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen broccoli until tender and drain.
- In a saucepan, melt the Velveeta cheese with 1 stick of margarine until smooth.
- Pour the cooked broccoli into an 8 1/2 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Pour the cheese and margarine mixture over the broccoli.
- Crumble the Ritz crackers and mix with 1/2 stick of margarine until coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the broccoli and cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute fresh steamed broccoli for the frozen variety. If you don't have Velveeta, a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work well. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Broccoli and Cheese dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or roasted meats for a hearty meal. It also makes a great side for gatherings, complementing dishes like Cherry Salad Supreme. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or crusty bread to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli And Cheese contains roughly 505 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 600mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli can be used; just steam it until tender before adding it to the baking dish. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. You can also mix in some pepper jack cheese for added heat.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian friendly. To enhance its appeal, serve it with a side of quinoa or a mixed vegetable salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).